Copper smelters are relying on by-product sulfuric acid revenues to offset losses from negative concentrate treatment charges. Strong acid prices are supporting smelter profitability, with prices remaining elevated. The trend underscores the key role of sulfuric acid in smelter economics and suggests continued price strength.
A Strait of Hormuz blockade and export bans from Russia and Kazakhstan severely curtailed sulfur supply, pushing global sulfuric acid prices to multi-year highs. The Chinese smelter acid index gained 94% and CFR Indonesia sulfuric acid rose 185% in H1. Despite a post-ceasefire retreat, inventories remain low and supply recovery is slow, keeping prices elevated.
The activated bleaching earth market experienced significant price fluctuations throughout 2024, primarily driven by the expanding edible oil industry in Asia Pacific regions. During the first quarter, prices maintained relative stability due to balanced supply and demand dynamics, with major manufacturers operating at standard production capacities.
As the second quarter progressed, prices saw a moderate increase, influenced by growing demand from emerging economies like Malaysia, Indonesia, China, and India. This upward trend was further amplified by rising production costs of bentonite, attapulgite, and sepiolite—the primary clay minerals used in bleaching earth production. The increased adoption of activated over natural bleaching earth, particularly for oils with high chlorophyll content, also contributed to price escalation.
By mid-year, the market witnessed temporary price stabilization as suppliers expanded production to meet growing demand. However, the third quarter brought renewed price pressure as energy costs for processing—particularly for activated variants requiring chemical treatment—increased significantly. The wet bleaching process gained popularity despite its higher initial investment, as it reduced overall bleaching earth requirements and minimized oil losses.
The fourth quarter showed marginal price correction as manufacturers implemented more efficient production technologies, partially offsetting rising raw material costs. The market remained segmented between premium specialty products for high-value oils and standard grades for conventional refining applications.
Future Outlook
According to Procurement Resource, the Bleaching Earth market is projected to maintain steady growth through 2035, with increasing emphasis on sustainable manufacturing processes and customized solutions tailored to specific refining needs across various industries.
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Bleaching Earth is termed swelling clay because it expands significantly when exposed to water. The capacity of the absorbent is two to seven times its volume. Prior to washing, drying, and milling to obtain the appropriate particle size distribution, these clays are treated with mineral acid to increase their surface area and pore volume.
H2Al2(SiO3)4·nH2O
Foundry, Oil well drilling, Iron ore palletizing, Detergents, Electrical earthing, Pharmaceuticals
Bentonite, acid-leached, Bleaching clay, Activated bleaching earth
Ashapura Perfoclay Limited, Global Bleach Chem Private Limited, Oil-Dri Corporation of America, Taiko Group of Companies
CurrencyUS$ (Data can also be provided in local currency)
Supplier Database AvailabilityYes
Customization ScopeThe report can be customized as per the requirements of the customer
Post-Sale Analyst Support360-degree analyst support after report delivery
Note: Our supplier search experts can assist your procurement teams in compiling and validating a list of suppliers indicating they have products, services, and capabilities that meet your company's needs.
It is made by processing montmorillonite clay with mineral acids and eluting basic elements such as aluminium, iron, and magnesium.
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The report revolves around the economics of production of activated carbon from coal.
The report is a detailed study of economics of production of activated carbon from coconut shells. The coconut shells are ground into small pieces and then carbonized to form charcoal.
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